Psycat: identifying psychosocial problems in children
It is the task of youth healthcare services to recognise psychosocial problems in children at an early stage. Questionnaires are an important tool for this purpose. We’ve developed a method, called Psycat, to achieve optimal results online with the smallest number of questions possible. Better for the child and for the parent.
Smart algorithms
Psycat uses CAT – computerised adaptive testing. Parents answer online questions about their child and we use those answers to estimate how serious the problems are. The algorithms we’ve developed always calculate the most logical follow-up question. Unnecessary questions are omitted. This saves time, as well as achieving more accurate results regarding the real problems. The healthcare professional receives the results in an easy-to-read graphic visualisation. Want to know more about the method? Read the info sheet.
Usable in practice
We initially developed Psycat for research purposes. It’s now a much sought-after tool for gaining a clear picture of children’s psychosocial problems and providing prompt help. And this is very necessary. Because more than 6% of children up to the age of 15 suffer from anxiety, hyperactivity, or other problems that seriously impair their ability to function. Psycat has already proved its worth in youth healthcare. But care providers in mental healthcare, youth care, and GPs can also help their clients and patients with Psycat.
Ready for commercial partner
The scientific development of Psycat has been completed and it has proven its value in practice. The time has now come for a commercial party to continue the activities. For this, it’s important for Psycat to be compatible with healthcare practice, including the digital medical file. We can remain involved as a co-shareholder and knowledge partner.
Interested?
We’re very keen to talk to commercial parties who would like to make Psycat available for the healthcare sector. Get in touch with Stefan van der Ploeg.